2016 A Place to Grow

A place to grow Franklin County Chamber of Commerce Chamber Directory

a special i l publication bli ti

JULY 2016

Contact Russellville City Hall at 256-332-6060

304 Jackson Ave. N Russellville, AL

Russellville City Councilmen Jamie Harris, Lanny Hubbard, Gary Cummings, William Nale, David Palmer & Mayor David Grissom

A Great Place to Live, Work & Raise a family.

From the

Chamber P.O. Box 1088 Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-1881 fax: 256-332-1883 www.franklincountytimes.com

General Manager

NICOLE PELL

nicole.pell@franklincountytimes.com

Managing Editor

ALISON JAMES

alison.james@franklincountytimes.com

Sales

PEGGY HYDE

peggy.hyde@franklincountytimes.com

Editorial/Photography

BERNIE MOUSSAD Circulation

TOMMY MORRIS

CONTENTS 4.

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12.

14.

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36.

Chamber Directors & Members Industry Government Communities Education Public Safety Airport/Live & Learn Hospitals Honoring our heroes Where to go What to do A year in headlines

Welcome to Franklin County, the Watermelon Capital of Alabama!

Franklin County is RICH, first in history, established in February 1814 by the Alabama Territorial Legislature. We are RICH in business and industry, with third generation familyCassie Medley owned businesses. Franklin Executive Director, County industry is excelling Franklin County in products and services in Chamber of Commerce North America and across the globe. We’re RICH in nature with camping, hiking trails and water recreation. You can’t help but fall in love with this adventurous and spectacular part of Northwest Alabama.

We are RICH in attractions with cool family fun during hot summer months and year-round concerts and theatre productions. Franklin County is RICH in educational opportunities with two school systems, seven schools throughout the county and higher learning at Northwest Shoals Community College. Students in Franklin County excel and are RICH in county, state and international championships. Franklin County is RICH in generosity, giving scholarships to graduating seniors as well as time, talents and money to other worthy causes. We are RICH with festivals – seven festivals county wide, the largest being the Watermelon Festival. Franklin County is blessed with these RICHes and many more. Visit Franklin County or make plans to stay…..it is a great place to live, work and play!

- Cassie Medley, Executive Director Franklin County Chamber of Commerce Mission statement - “As a Board of elected volunteers working with a salaried Director, this Chamber coordinates, facilitates and directs various activities to provide the most healthy climate possible for all businesses, as well as promote Franklin County and its special resources for tourism and to provide to our citizens various events that promote harmony and goodwill throughout the county.”

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Franklin County Chamber of Commerce 2016 Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors Jeremy Campbell, President Mark McNatt, Vice-President Pam Hester, Secretary Selena Jackson, Treasurer Kevin Stone, Past President Cassie Medley, Executive Director

Mary Ellen Allen Kelly Barnett Lisa Forman Corey Jackson Kreg Kennedy Crista Madden Emily Mays

Ann McDermitt Barry Pounders Mike Shewbart Kevin Stone Kevin Strickland Mark Tucker Scott Wiginton

2016 Chamber of Commerce Members Accountants Foster & Foster CPA 269 Underwood Road Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-1525 Joe Tucker, CPA 509 N. Jackson Ave. Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-2004 Strickland & Barksdale, CPAs 525 St. Clair St SE, Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-2275 Air Conditioning Affordable Service Heating & Air Conditioning 510 St. Clair St. Russellville, AL 35653 256-366-2007 Stephenson Services 15891 U.S. Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-361-3813 Apartments Village Square Apartments 100 Square Road Russellville, AL 35654 256-332-4620 Assisted Living Country Cottage 900 N. Jackson Ave.

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Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-4707 Country Place Senior Living 690 National Ave. Hamilton, AL 35570 205-921-0083 Attorneys Hester & James 13830 U.S. Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-7440 McDowell, Beason & Hamilton 507 N. Jackson Ave. Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-1660 Roger Bedford & Associates 303 N. Jackson Ave. Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-2880 Attractions Bear Creek Development Authority 1111 County Rd 88, Hodges, AL 35571 256-332-4392 Rock Bridge Canyon Equestrian Park 1942 Alabama Highway 172 Hodges, AL 35571 205-935-3499

Auctions Davis Auction/Realty 115 N. Jackson Ave. Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-9920 Automobile Repairs Eddie’s Collison Repairs, Inc. 21441 Highway 24 Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-9090 Banks/Credit Unions Bank Independent 401 N. Jackson Ave. / 13566 U.S. Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-386-5000 117 4th Ave. South Red Bay, AL 35582 CB&S Bank 200 Jackson Ave. S. / 14015 U.S. Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-1710 / 256-332-5110 407 4th St. West Red Bay, AL 35582 256-356-9547 Community Spirit Bank 14009 U.S. Highway 43 / 310 N. Jackson Ave. Russellville, AL 35653

256-332-5315 / 256-356-5630 200 4th Ave. S.W. Red Bay, AL 35582 256-356-4445 First Metro Bank 15315 U.S. Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-331-0600 Listerhill Credit Union 13400 Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-7755 Valley Credit Union 111 Lauderdale St. N.E. Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-8923 Valley State Bank 308 N. Jackson Ave. / 15565 Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-331-4700 / 256-332-3600 527 4th Ave. S.E. Red Bay, AL 35582 256-356-9990 Billing Services Ambulance Billing Services 1509 Phil Ave. Phil Campbell, AL 35581 205-993-4663

CHAMBER DIRECTORY

Business Services N and R International 757 Duncan Creek Road Russellville, AL 35653 Career Centers Hamilton Career Center 1481 Military Street S. Hamilton, AL 35570 205-921-5672 Carwash Fast Way Carwash 502 Bostick Rd. Red Bay, AL 35582 256-356-2536 Catering Fourth Street Grill & Steakhouse 607 4th St. N.W. Red Bay, AL 35582 256-356-2226 Grissom’s Frosty Inn 12805 U.S. Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-2052 Childcare/Daycare Little Treasures Pre-K 1100 4th St. N.E. Red Bay, AL 35582 256-356-8736 Chiropractors Morgan Chiropractic 15255 U.S. Highway 43 #3 Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-4949 Churches First Baptist Church 213 N. Jackson Ave. Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-2065 Clubs/Organizations American Legion Post 64 310 Lawrence Street West Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-2679 ARC of Franklin County (Sarah Dinsmore Center) 1210 4th St. N.W. Red Bay, AL 35582 256-356-8855

CHAMBER DIRECTORY

Big Brothers/Big Sisters of the Shoals 505 N. Columbia Ave. Sheffield, AL 35660 256-248-1931 Book Lovers Study Club Civitan Club of Red Bay Cultura Garden Club Franklin County Arts & Humanities Council 208 N. Jackson Ave. Russellville, AL 35653 Franklin County Cattleman’s Association 30794 Highway 724 Russellville, AL 35654

Counseling B. S. Hillman Counseling Services, LLC 531 Hamilton St. Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-5800 Caring Confidential Counseling 3480 Broad Street Phil Campbell, AL 35581 205-993-4556 Dentists Dr. Brett Bowen, Bowen Family Dentistry 243 Underwood Road Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-4000

Kiwanis Club P.O. Box 1234 Russellville, AL 35653

Dr. Alan Sherrill 15991 Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-9733

Shoals Sav-A-Life 2201 Cloyd Blvd.

Florence, AL 35630 256-740-0640

Dr. Steven Hammack 531 St. Clair St. Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-6888

Spruce Pine Historical Society P.O. Box 32 Spruce Pine, AL 35585

Department Stores

There’s A Way P.O. Box 279 Russellville, AL 35653

Wal-Mart 13675 Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-7382 Doctors

United Way of the Shoals P.O. Box 1228 Florence, AL 35631 256-764-5892

Dr. Harry Kuberg 15225 Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-331-9408

Construction Services

Dr. Raynard Fabianke 209 Hospital Road Red Bay, AL 35582 256-356-9511

Aderholt Masonry 3457 Waterloo Road Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-9423 Convenience Store Yogi’s Foodco 501 Waterloo Road Russellville, AL 35653 Copiers J. T. Ray Company 4127 Helton Drive Florence, AL 35630 877-767-7210

Economic Development Agencies Franklin County Development Authority 16109 Highway 43 Suite C Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-8726

Little Treasures Pre-K 1100 4th St. N.E. Red Bay, AL 35582 256-356-8736 Northwest-Shoals Community College 2080 College Road Phil Campbell, AL 35581 256-331-6219 Russellville City Schools 1945 Waterloo Road Russellville, AL 35653 256-331-2000 Electric Franklin Electric 225 Franklin St. N.E. Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-2730 Lewis Electric 306 W. Coffee St. Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-1912 Stephenson Services 15891 U.S. Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-361-3813 Emergency Franklin County Rescue Squad 304 E. Limestone St. Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-9038 Energy Conservation Petro Chemical Energy 107 E. Madison St. Russellville, AL 35653 256-331-2473 Farm Equipment/Supplies Darrell Harp Enterprises 819 Fourth Street NW Red Bay, AL 35582 256-356-4424 Financial Lending

Education

Security Finance 14001 Highway 43 #22 Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-9808

Franklin County Schools 500 Coffee Ave. Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-1360

Titles, Etc. 13150 Highway 43, Suite 9 Russellville, AL 35654 256-398-8796

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Tower Loan of Russellville 318-1 S. Jackson Ave. Russellville, AL 35653 256-277-6889

Russellville, City of 304 N. Jackson Ave. Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-6060

Fitness / Health Clubs

Russellville Housing Authority 73 Cross Ave. S.E. Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-0013

American Health & Fitness 15567 Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-4771 Curves 13760 Highway 43 #5 Russellville, AL 35653 256-331-4143 Funeral Homes Pinkard Funeral Homes 27305 Highway 24 Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-7772 Spry Memorial Chapel 906 Jackson Ave. S. Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-1122 Furniture TD’s Fine Furniture Outlet, Inc. 471 Old Warrior Road Sumiton, AL 35148 205-648-3858 Government/Agencies Franklin County Department of Human Resources 737 County Road 48 Russellville, AL 35654 256-331-5900 Franklin County Commission 405 N. Jackson Ave. Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-8851 Hodges, Town of 1942 Highway 172 Hodges, AL 35571 205-935-3445 Phil Campbell, Town of 580 Railroad St. Phil Campbell, AL 35581 205-993-5313 Red Bay, City of 203 4th Ave. S.E. Red Bay, AL 35582 256-356-4473

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Vina, Town of 7111 Highway 19 Vina, AL 35593 256-356-4996 Grocery Big Star of Red Bay 406 4th St. W. Red Bay, AL 35582 256-356-2521 Piggly Wiggly - Red Bay 518 Fourth Ave. S. P.O. Box 360 Red Bay, AL 35582 256-356-4406 Price Less IGA - Russellville 15160 Hwy 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-331-1071 Hardware Green’s Dependable Hardware 15220 Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-331-0123 Hospitals/Healthcare Gentiva Home Health 12200 Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-3375 Red Bay Hospital 211 Hospital Road Red Bay, AL 35582 256-356-9532 Russellville Hospital 15155 Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-1611 Hotel/Motel Best Western 13770 Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-1002

Greenwoods Inn 13600 Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-8920 Insurance Allstate Insurance – Oliver Insurance Group 301 A Underwood Road Russellville, AL 35653 256-331-9657 Country Financial – Tony James 15480 Highway 43 Suite D Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-6161 Nationwide – Laura Johnson & Associates 13728 Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-331-1980 Sinclair-Lawrence & Associates 117 Jackson Ave. S. Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-2061 State Farm - Lanny Norris 201 Washington Ave. NW Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-0540 Walker Insurance Agency, Inc. 2918 Florence Blvd.

Florence, AL 35630 256-349-2035 Wood-Thompson Insurance 130 N. Jackson Ave. Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-1383 Investments Legacy Planning LLC (Ken Askew) 2707 Artie St. S.W. Huntsville, AL 35805 256-536-7320 Lawn Care Bradford Lawn Care 249 First St. Russellville, AL 35653 Manufacturers Clark Pulley Industries 120 Clark Drive

Russellville, AL 35654 256-332-4981 Coca-Cola Bottling Company 4959 Prospect Road Carbon Hill, AL 35549 205-924-9922 Franklin Homes 10655 Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-4510 G & G Steel 15825 Highway 243 Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-6652 Gates Corporation 909 Gates St. N.W. Red Bay, AL 35582 256-356-4436 Innovative Hearth Products 1769 East Lawrence St. Russellville, AL 35654 1-800-655-2008 Leisure Creations 67 Ash Ave. Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-4567 Montgomery Industries 188 Commerce Way Spruce Pine, AL 35585 256-277-0045 Pilgrim’s Pride 2045 County Road 244 Russellville, AL 35654 256-332-8900 Sunshine Homes 100 Sunshine Ave. Red Bay, AL 35582 256-356-4427 Sunshine Mills 500 6th St. S.W. Red Bay, AL 35582 256-356-8287 Tiffin Motor Homes 105 2nd St. N.W. Red Bay, AL 35582 256-356-8661 Masonry Aderholt Masonry 3457 Waterloo Road Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-9423

CHAMBER DIRECTORY

817 E. Lawrence St. Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-2222

4640 Chisholm Road Florence, AL 35630 256-764-7330

Pharmacy

Davis Auction/Realty 115 N. Jackson Ave. Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-9920

Images 2 Inc. 3780 River Road Muscle Shoals, AL 35661 256-446-5395

Redmont Pharmacy, Red Bay 1102 Golden Road Red Bay, AL 35582 256-356-9000

Sewell Realty 15830 Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-4001

Signage

Shoals Family Pharmacy Group, Russellville 318 Jackson Ave. S. / 15385 Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-8550 / 256-332-5545

Restaurants

Media

Pawnbrokers

Franklin County Times 14131 Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-1881

Alabama Gun & Pawn 15347 Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-1108

Pilati Investments - Franklin Free Press 113 Washington Ave. N.W. Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-0255 Red Bay News 120 4th Ave. S.E. Red Bay, AL 35582 256-356-2148 Medical Department of Rehab Services 1450 E. Avalon Ave. Muscle Shoals, AL 35661 256-381-1110 Encore Rehabilitation 15041 Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-331-0070

Photographers Scotty Kennedy Photography 400 4th St SW, Red Bay, AL 35582 256-356-8758

Bojangles 13810 Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-8787 Fourth Street Grill & Steakhouse 607 4th St. N.W. Red Bay, AL 35582 256-356-2226

Physical Therapy

Frosty Inn 12805 U.S. Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-2052

Encore Rehabilitation 15041 Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-331-0070

McDonald’s 15254 Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-6564

Monuments

Plumbing

Atkins Marble 403 Lawrence St. E. Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-2332

Hoyt Lane & Son Plumbing Services, Inc. 3001 County Road 77 Russellville, AL 35654 256-332-0198

Papa John’s Pizza 14520 Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-331-5000

Medical Clinic of Red Bay, Dr. Raynard Fabianke 209 Hospital Road Red Bay, AL 35582 256-356-9511

Nursing Home Generations of Red Bay 106 10th Ave. N.W. Red Bay, AL 35582 256-356-4982 Terrace Manor 390 Underwood Road Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-3826 Optometrists Campbell Vision Center 14378 Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-1355 Eyecare Professionals 15255 Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-5440

CHAMBER DIRECTORY

Stephenson Services 15891 U.S. Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-361-3813 Printers Hester Printing 308 Jackson Ave. S. Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-5249 Southern Accounting Systems, Inc. (SAS) 509 Highway 43 Muscle Shoals, AL 35662 256-383-2029 Real Estate/Realtors American Realty Company, LLC

The Fatty Shack 3145 Highway 237 Phil Campbell, AL 35581 205-993-8066 Retail Byler Station Gift Exchange 114 A Jackson Ave. Russellville, AL 35653 256-436-9515 Dependable Sporting Center 15220-C Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-0032 Thompson Drapery 120 Jackson Ave. N. Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-3892 Screening Printers Graph X Apparel

Hester Printing 308 Jackson Ave. S. Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-5249 Southern Accounting Systems, Inc. (SAS) 509 Highway 43 Muscle Shoals, AL 35662 256-383-2029 Specialty Stores Alabama Trophy & Engraving 24242 Hwy 24 Russellville, AL 35653 256-810-4605 Graph-X Apparel 4640 Chisholm Road Florence, AL 35630 256-764-7330 Images 2 Inc. 3780 River Road Muscle Shoals, AL 35661 256-446-5395 Utilities Franklin Electric Cooperative 225 Franklin St. N.E. Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-2730 Russellville Water & Sewer Department 721 Jackson Ave S. Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-3850 Veterinarians Russellville Animal Clinic 15392 Highway 43 Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-2254 Welding Garrett Welding Services 910 Walnut Gate Road Russellville, AL 35654 256-332-2272

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Industry

Welcome new industry:

Farmers Home Furniture!

Farmers Home Furniture announced in May the opening of a distribution center in Russellville, promising 80 news jobs and a $10 million investment. The center is set to begin operations in January 2017.

Industry Spotlight: Clark Pulley Russellville’s Clark Pulley plant was built in 1979, owned at the time by a company called Clark Consolidated Industry out of Cleveland, Ohio. The company was eager to expand into the South and found a positive atmosphere – with plenty of incentives – for a growing industry.

The 50-employee manufacturing plant produces a variety of pulleys for a range of markets, particularly the lawn and garden industry.

Terry Moore, who came on in 1985 working in quality control, rose through the 8

ranks and today is president of the company, which is now owned by Agri-Fab (AF Holdings).

“If you buy a lawnmower, chances are it has one of our pulleys on it,” Moore said.

“We sell 9-12 million parts per year. We use 10.2 million tons of steel – at least that, if not more – per year.”

The plant was originally 50,000 square feet and, over the course of nearly four decades and several expansions, now covers 141,000 square feet. But it’s still a small company, the way Moore sees it – and

that’s one of the best things about it.

“When you work for a

small company, you know everyone,” Moore said. “I think that’s pretty neat.”

CHAMBER DIRECTORY

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8877-332-1710 777 33 3322 17 1710 10 | cbsbank.com cbbsbbankk com Motorhome compliments of Tiffin Motorhomes of Red Bay, AL. All loans subject to credit approval.

CHAMBER DIRECTORY

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Industry

Industry thrives in Franklin County A few thoughts from interim FCDA Director Sherye Price

Franklin County’s industries are thriving, and outside companies are taking notice. The Franklin County Development Authority (FCDA) has recently announced two new companies and two new expansions totaling $48,000,000 in capital investment and 180 new jobs.

With the growth in industry comes more interest in

the local workforce. Franklin County’s current unemployment rate is 5.8 percent (May 2016), which is the lowest in Northwest Alabama.

Franklin County is fortunate to have two school systems and a community college that are dedicated to the workforce needs of local industry.

In 2014 the FCDA partnered with local industry

Top Ten

Manufacturers Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation • 256-332-8900 Pilgrim’s, a poultry producer and processor, has been in business for over 60 years and is the world’s second largest producer of chicken. One of Pilgrim’s many plants is located in Russellville on Highway 244 and is the county’s No. 1 employer with around 1,300 employees.

Tiffin MotorHomes, Inc. • 256-356-8661 Tiffin MotorHomes is a family owned and operated business that has been manufacturing and servicing motorhomes in Red Bay since the early 1970’s. Employing over 1,000 people, Tiffin is the second largest employer in Franklin County.

Sunshine Mills, Inc. • 256-356-9541 In 1949, Sunshine Mills was founded and began producing animal feed in Red Bay. Later on, in 1960, the company began producing pet food as well. Over the past five decades, Sunshine Mills has grown expo-

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leaders, the Franklin County School System, Russellville City School System and Northwest-Shoals Community College to organize the first annual Made in Franklin Expo. The purpose of this event is to encourage current high school students, our future workforce, to consider a vocational trade for their future.

Made in Franklin is held

nentially. The corporation now has three production facilities in three states and is one of the leading producers of pet food in America. Sunshine Mills also employs about 450 people in Franklin County.

Innovative Hearth Products • 256-331-0710 Innovative Hearth Products, or IHP, has been operating in Russellville since 2004. The company has recently expanded its facilities and has increased employment since 2013, employing about 365 as of today. IHP is a manufacturer of full wood and gas fireplaces and gas logs and their components.

Southern Homes • 256-277-7200 For over a quarter of a century, Southern Homes has been recognized as the manufacturer that revolutionized custom building in manufactured housing. Today, the company continues to press forward with customization and innovation. The Russellville plant opened in Russellville in 2014 and currently employs 270 people.

Franklin Manufacturing/G&G Steel • 256-332-6654 Located in Russellville, Franklin Manufacturing has been operating in Franklin County since 1977. Starting out as a small business, Franklin Manufacturing has seen continued growth since its establishment and now stands as one of the largest suppliers of hydraulic equipment in North America.

during the first week of November and is an opportunity to bring industry and education together in an expo-style event to showcase our companies, their products, and the skills needed to be employed right here at home.

Sunshine Homes, Inc. • 256-356-4427 For over four decades Sunshine Homes has been designing and building homes for individuals all across the United States. Family owned, the company prides itself in quality and has sold over 88,000 homes. Located in Red Bay, Sunshine Homes employs close to 150 people.

Franklin Homes • 256-332-4510 Franklin Homes is one of the leading home manufacturing companies in the South. Located in Russellville on Highway 43, Franklin Homes designs, assembles, and delivers homes to authorized dealers in 15 southern states. The main mission of Franklin Homes and its over 120 employees is to produce the highest quality home one can find.

Gates Corporation • 256-356-4436 One of the Gates Corporation’s many manufacturing facilities in North America is located in Red Bay. Gates is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of power transmission belts and fluid power products. The Gates Corporation employs over 100 individuals at its Red Bay plant.

Leisure Creations • 866-765-6726 Producing high quality outdoor patio and pool furniture, Leisure Creations employs 55 people in Franklin County.

CHAMBER DIRECTORY

COMPANY

NUMBER

PRODUCT

Alabama Stone Company Alaco Sales B&B Roadway, Inc. Cashion Thermoplastics, Inc. Clark Pulley Industries CNC Wood Crafters, Inc. Continental Axle Products Darrell Harp Enterprises Distinctive Designs International Doors & More, Inc. Fab Masters, Inc. Farmers Home Furniture Franklin Structures Innovative Hearth Products G & G Steel Garrett Welding Services Gates Corporation Inside Stone Leisure Creations M L Docks, LLC Mar-Jac Poultry Mills Shaving & Mulch, Inc. Montgomery Distributing, Inc. Northwest Alabama Marble Northwest Industries, Inc. Pilgrim’s Road Gear Truck Equipment Russellville Cut Stone Saint-Gobain ADFORS Shelter Products, Inc. Southern Homes Sunshine Homes Sunshine Mills Tidwell Cabinets, Inc. Tiffin Door Company, Inc. Tiffin Motorhomes Tiffin Supply Company Triple H Electronics, Inc. Tennessee Valley Recycling Vulcan Materials Company

256-332-3700 256-332-2860 256-332-4035 256-356-2017 256-332-4981 205-993-4399 205-993-5361 256-356-4424 256-332-7390 256-332-9210 256-331-0305

Fabricated limestone Custom fabricated foam products Road and bridge safety equipment Thermoformed plastic products Pulleys Custom wood products Axels and tires Farm equipment and distribution Floral/greenery design Wooden cabinets/doors Custom steel fabrication Furniture distribution Houses Fireplaces, fireplace inserts, gas log sets Custom fabricators/bridges and hydraulics Custom fabrication Power transmission belts, fluid power products Mantles, framing contractor Pool and patio furniture Aluminum boating docks and walkways Feed mill Wood chips and mulch Electronics distribution Custom marble vanities and showers Pre-fabricated metal buildings Poultry production and processing Trailer parts and accessories Custom cut limestone Fiberglass roofing material Products for manufactured homes Manufactured houses Houses Pet food Custom wood cabinets and furniture Wood doors/cabinets Motorhomes Retail hardware and appliances Electronic components Scrap recycling services Crushed stone, sand and gravel

CHAMBER DIRECTORY

256-332-4510 256-331-1657 256-332-6654 256-332-2272 256-356-4436 205-993-8814 256-332-4567 256-331-0008 205-935-5454 256-277-0045 256-332-2223 256-331-0305 256-332-8900 256-331-9340 256-332-0978 256-332-9020 205-993-4576 256-277-7200 256-356-4427 256-356-9541 205-993-4238 256-356-8605 256-356-8661 256-356-4207 256-356-9005 256-398-8900 256-331-0832

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Government Municipalities Hodges Town Hall • 1942 Highway 72 • Meeting: second Monday of each month at 7 p.m.

• 205-935-3445

Franklin County Commission

The Franklin County Commission is chaired by Probate Judge Barry Moore and includes districts for four commissioners. The commission holds a work session the second Monday of every month at 5 p.m. and a monthly meeting the third Monday at 8:30 a.m. at the Elizabeth Lucas Courthouse Annex on North Jackson Avenue, across from the Franklin County Courthouse. To reach a county commissioner, call 256-332-8850.

Probate Judge Barry Moore Chairman Chris Wallace District 1 District 2 (vacant) Rayburn Massey District 3 Don Hastings District 4

Other county offices include: Circuit Clerk Anita Scott 256-332-8861 Circuit Judge Terry Dempsey 256-332-8893

District Attorney Joey Rushing 256-332-8870 District Court Judge Paula McDowell 256-332-8886 EMA Director Jody Hitt 256-332-8890 Extension Service Director Katernia Cole 256-332-8880 County Engineer David Palmer 256-332-8434 Revenue Commissioner Veronica Stancil 256-332-8831

Phil Campbell City Hall • 580 Railroad St. • Meeting: every first and third Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m.

• 205-993-5313 • www.philcampbellal.com Red Bay City Hall • 203 Fourth Ave. SE • Meeting: first and third Monday of each month at 7 p.m.

• 256-356-4473 • www.visitredbay.com Vina Town Hall • 7111 Highway 19 in Vina • Meeting: first Monday of each month at 7 p.m.

• 256-356-4996 • www.vinaalabama.org Russellville City Hall • 304 N. Jackson Ave. • Meeting: first and third Monday of each month, with a work session at 6 p.m. at the meeting at 7 p.m.

• 256-332-6060 • www.russellvilleal.org

Solid Waste Manager Gene Ward 256-332-8412 (billing) / 256-332-5983 (landfill) Franklin County Courthouse 405 North Jackson Avenue P.O. Box 1028 Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-8850

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CHAMBER DIRECTORY

J.C. Weeks Jr. PD and Staff 1102 4th St. NW Red Bay, AL

Russellville Hotel & Suites 13770 Hwy 43, Russellville, AL 256-332-1002

• Banquet & Conference Facilities Avail. • 40” HD flat panel Televisions • Complimentary Deluxe HOT Breakfast • Free Wi-Fi • Large Whirlpool Suites Each Best Western branded hotel is independently owned and operated.

CHAMBER DIRECTORY

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Hodges

Communities

With a population around 300, Hodges certainly can’t be considered a booming metropolis. But with a great small-town feel and numerous community amenities, it’s easy to see why so many call it home in Franklin County.

The town boasts a community center, where senior citizens meet daily for meals and activities. A p picnic p park

Vina

Vina was incorporated in 1909. The town has accomplished a great deal during the past ten years. It now features a park with a playground, walking track and basketball and tennis

with a walking trail is just down the road from the Rock Bridge Canyon Equestrian Park, opened in 2013, which attracts tourists from far and wide with its hiking and horseback riding trails.

Hodges is also home to the Bear Creek Education Center

and Overton Farm, which is being renovated and should soon reopen to visitors.

The town was first incorporated in 1913 after quick growth that can be attributed to its location on the Illinois Central Railroad Line.

Changes came, over the next

courts; fire station; Little League field; and community storm shelter. A popular meeting place in Vina is community center, which was completed in 2006.

The center is enjoyed by the senior citizens of the community for lunch three days per week. Vina also is home to a recently established Industrial Park – 400

acres currently boasting three businesses, with plenty of room for future growth.

Highly anticipated each year is July Fest, an outdoor community festival.

Arts and Entertainment Center, host of an active community theatre that presents wonderful stage productions throughout the year.

Named the 12th safest city in Alabama in a 2016 poll, Red Bay claims about 3,500 residents. One of the

city’s most well-known and admired features are the Red Bay Oak trees, which were planted by the Red Bay Garden Club in the 1930s and cast a canopy over Main Street, standing as a tribute to the citizens’ pride and care that allowed the community

100 years, as they do for all towns, and activity in Hodges has ebbed and flowed. The town now holds the Spirit of Hodges Festival annually to celebrate everything this community has to offer – to embrace its past as well as its future.

Red Bay

The City of Red Bay was incorporated July 1907.

By many accounts, it is a city with a thriving business community – including cornerstone industries like Tiffin Motor Homes, Sunshine Mills and Sunshine Homes, among others – as well as desirable recreation and schools. Located on the Mississippi border, Red Bay also boasts destinations like Cypress Cove Farm, the 51st trail site on the Alabama Birding Trails list, and the 14

to celebrate its recognition as a Tree City USA. Other attractions include the city’s water park and the Red Bay Museum.

Founder’s Fest in September of each year celebrates Red Bay and everything the city has to offer.

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Phil

Campbell The town of Phil Campbell was incorporated in 1911, 15 years after it was founded. In the late 1880’s Phillip “Phil” Campbell agreed to run railroad track and establish a railroad depot in modern day Phil Campbell. Subsequently, the town was named in his honor and to this day is the only place in Alabama that shares the full name of an individual.

With a population of

Russellville

The county seat of Franklin County, Russellville is named after Maj. William Russell, an early settler in the area

around 1,150 people, Phil Campbell has that “small town” atmosphere so many who live there enjoy.

Every year the town organizes its annual Downtown Hoedown celebration that includes local musical performances, car shows and arts-and-craft stands,

which attract many people from all over.

Dismals Canyon Conservatory, with its natural rock formations, caves, trails and rare glowworms, is one of Phil Campbell’s biggest attractions.

The town is also home to one campus of Northwest-

Shoals Community College, the state’s first junior college.

Over the course of its existence the town has seen its fair share of both growth and tragedy, but – like a train – keeps chugging forward.

who helped in the construction of Jackson’s Military Road, and was incorporated Nov. 27, 1819.

At the last census the city was found to be home to nearly 10,000 residents.

The city continues to grow with the continued devel-

opment of its 200-acre industrial park, which is host to numerous manufacturers and industries producing everything from wholesale food products to manufactured housing; the enhancement of local schools, featuring alwaysimproving academics; and

an expanding retail base, both in downtown and along Highway 24.

The county’s Watermelon Festival is held yearly in Russellville. Also anticipated is the growing community event, Jam on Sloss Lake, the city’s Fourth of July celebration.

In Spruce Pine, which lies between Russellville and Phil Campbell, neighbors enjoy a bustling community center and a thriving annual festival, Spruce Pine Day. Additionally, one of Franklin County’s newest industries, MarJac Poultry, is establishing a feed mill in this small

community that should be operational by 2017.

Tharptown, northeast of Russellville, and Belgreen, between Russellville and Red Bay, county K-12 schools serve as the hub of community engagement.

Belgreen was also at one time the county seat.

Unincorporated

Communities

Three additional communities in Franklin County are recognized as those that, while not incorpoCHAMBER DIRECTORY

rated, are yet home to growing populations of people who are passionate about where they live.

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Education

Franklin County Schools

Franklin County Board of Education

pat.cochran.71@gmail.com Term Expires October 2020

Superintendent Gary Williams 256-332-1360 garywilliams@franklin. k12.al.us

Shannon Oliver – District 4 256-331-1970 256-810-2781 sodog33@hotmail.com Term Expires October 2016

Assistant Superintendent Donald Borden 256-332-1360 donaldborden@franklin. k12.al.us

Mike Shewbart – District 5 256-810-1263 shewbart@bellsouth.net Term Expires October 2018

Ralton Baker – District 1 Vice-Chairperson 256-810-0647 raltonbaker@yahoo.com Term Expires October 2018

Franklin County Schools www.franklin.k12.al.us Central Office: 500 Coffee Ave., Russellville, AL 35653

Terry Welborn – District 2 205-269-3831 towelborn@yahoo.com Term Expires October 2016 Pat Cochran – District 3 256-436-3967 16

Belgreen High School Mascot: Bulldogs Principal: Myra Frederick 256-332-1376 14220 Highway 187 Russellville, AL 35653 East Franklin Junior High

Franklin County Schools 500 Coffee Ave., Russellville, AL 35653 www.franklin.k12.al.us/

School Mascot: Rebels Principal: Nancy Hallman 256-331-2140 1815 Highway 89 Phil Campbell, AL 35581

Red Bay High School Mascot: Tigers Principal: Kenny Sparks 256-331-2270 800 8th Street Red Bay, AL 35582

Franklin County Career Technical Center Principal: Scott Wiginton 256-332-2127 85 Jail Springs Road Russellville, AL 35653

Tharptown Elementary School Mascot: Wildcats Principal: Ann Scott 256-332-3404 145 Highway 80 Russellville, AL 35654

Phil Campbell Elementary School Mascot: Bobcats Principal: Jackie Ergle 256-331-2170 148 Camp Street Phil Campbell, AL 35581 Phil Campbell High School Mascot: Bobcats Principal: Gary Odom 256-331-2150 65 School Avenue Phil Campbell, AL 35581

Tharptown High School Mascot: Wildcats Principal: Barry Laster 256-332-6485 255 Highway 80 Russellville, AL 35654 Vina High School Mascot: Red Devils Principal: James Pharr 256-331-2260 8250 County Highway 23 Vina, AL 35593 CHAMBER DIRECTORY

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17

Education

Russellville City Schools

Russellville City Schools 1945 Waterloo Road, Russellville, AL 35653 www.rcs.k12.al.us/

Russellville City Schools Board of Education Superintendent Heath Grimes 256-331-2001 heath.grimes@rcs.k12.al.us Jerry Groce 256-332-3559 jerry.groce@rcs.k12.al.us Term expires May 2018 Greg Trapp 256-332-8094 greg.trapp@rcs.k12.al.us Term expires May 2020 Greg Batchelor 256-332-4156 greg.batchelor@rcs.k12. al.us Term expires May 2017 Judy Pounders 256-332-0112 judy.pounders@rcs.k12. al.us Term expires May 2019 Bret Gist 256-332-6652 bret.gist@rcs.k12.al.us Term expires May 2016

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Russellville City Schools http://www.rcs.k12.al.us Central Office: 1945 Waterloo Road, Russellville, AL 35653 Russellville High School Mascot: Golden Tigers Principal: Jason Goodwin 256-331-2110 1865 Waterloo Road Russellville, AL 35653 Russellville Middle School Mascot: Golden Tigers Principal: Karen Thorn 256-331-2120 765 Summit Street Russellville, AL 35653 Russellville Elementary School Mascot: Golden Tigers Principal: Kristie Ezzell 256-331-2123 133 Chucky Mullins Drive Russellville, AL 35653 West Elementary School Mascot: Golden Tigers Principal: Deanna Hollimon 256-331-2122 1340 Clay Avenue Russellville, AL 35653

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Higher Education Northwest-Shoals h h l

Community College Northwest-Shoals Community College has been providing postsecondary and workforce education to Northwest Alabama for 50 years. As a comprehensive two-year college, NW-SCC provides academic, career technical and lifelong educational opportunities. The College operates two campuses, the Shoals campus in Muscle Shoals and the Phil Campbell Campus in Phil Campbell, located in Franklin County.

With just over 75 oercent of its students benefitting from financial aid, NW-SCC makes higher education a reality for a wide range of students at various income levels. NW-SCC is an ideal option for those interested in academic transfer, career/technical programs and health studies careers.

Students who attend Northwest-Shoals to obtain basic educational requirements before transferring on to a four-year college/ university save on average 50-60 percent on tuition costs.

The Phil Campbell Campus was founded in 1963 as it derived its original charter

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from the Alabama legislature through the Alabama Trade School and Junior College Authority Act of 1963 as Northwest Alabama State Junior College to provide access to postsecondary education for citizens of the rural counties of northwest Alabama. It was the first public junior college in the Alabama Community College System.

The Phil Campbell campus of NW-SCC might be best known for its Associate Degree Nursing program.

In 2016, the ADN program graduated 60 nurses into the workforce.

In addition to nursing, NW-SCC offers welding, applied engineering and machining programs (machine shop) and the academic transfer option, which allows students the opportunity to take basic core classes at NW-SCC before transferring to a fouryear college or university.

Regardless of a student’s educational goals, NW-SCC can help them achieve those goals. For more information about Northwest-Shoals Community College, visit nwscc.edu.

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21

Public Safety

Law Enforcement f

Franklin County residents can go about their days feeling secure and safe thanks to the dedicated, superior service provided by local police chiefs and the county sheriff and their respective departments. From drug busts to traffic direction, from responding to emergency situations to participating in community events, Franklin County’s “boys in blue” are always keeping a watchful on the communities entrusted them. Their servant spirits and commitment – to jobs that are often thankless – are part of what make Franklin County a great place to call home.

Russellville Police Department 400 N. Jackson Ave. Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-2230 Crime Stoppers Tip Line: 256-386-8685 Red Bay Police Department 112 5th Ave. SE Red Bay, AL 35582 256-356-4455 Phil Campbell Police Department 580 Railroad St. Phil Campbell, AL 35581 205-993-5314 Franklin County Sheriff’s Office 748 Walnut Gate Road Russellville, AL 35654 256-332-8811 Crime Tip Hotline: 256-332-8820

Fire Departments

Franklin County’s paid and volunteer fire departments boast devoted fire chiefs and officers throughout the county who pour their passion for protection into their communities tirelessly to ensure safety is top-notch.

Often under-funded and under-appreciated, firefighters go above and beyond to see to it that Franklin County is a wonderful place to live, work and grow. Local depart-

ments frequently assist one another and work together to fight fires and respond to other safety situations, collaborating to ensure safety in Franklin County.

Departments include: Russellville, Red Bay, Vina, Hodges, Phil Campbell, Gravel Hill, Frog Pond, Frankfort, East Franklin, Burnout & Halltown, Belgreen, Tharptown and Pleasant Site.

For emergency fire or police assistance, dial 9-1-1.

22

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State Representative Johnny Mack Morrow and wife, Dr. Martha Morrow, invite everyone to enjoy Alabama Bird Trail Site #51 A right here in Franklin County.

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Airport Visitors might be surprised to find an airport in Russellville, but it’s another of many community assets.

Located at 13365 Highway 243, the Russellville Municipal Airport and Bill Pugh Field are large enough to accept commercial aircraft, boasting a 5,500foot runway, and the facilities record about 3,000 operations per year. The airport is used frequently by current and prospective industries.

The airport is managed by Harry Mattox, a retired Air Force veteran who

now teaches flight lessons with Blue Diamond Aviation. The airport enhances industrial development in the area and offers self-service fuel, hangars, a passenger terminal and lounge, airplane rental, aerial tours and aircraft maintenance. The present facilities were completed in 2004.

Long range plans for the airport, which originated in the community in the ‘60s, include extending the ramp and building a corporate hangar, as well as establishing an Automated Weather Observing System.

Live & Learn Quests for knowledge in Franklin County might lead one to one of two public libraries, the Red Bay Museum or the Franklin County Archives.

Russellville Public Library, in Russellville, and Weatherford Public Library (Northwest Regional Public Library System), in Red Bay, offer volumes upon volumes of the printed word, as well as public computers, Wi-Fi and audio and video media.

The Franklin County Archives offers a wealth of Franklin County Archives 300 E. Limestone St. Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-8827 Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Closed for lunch from noon to 1 p.m.

Director: Chris Ozbirn

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Russellville Public Library 110 Lawrence St. E. Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-1535 Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Director: Ashley Cummins

Weatherford Public Library 307 4th Avenue S. Red Bay, AL 35582 256-356-9255 Monday and Wednesday, 1-5 p.m.

Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Thursday and Friday, noon to 5 p.m.

Director: Linda Ezzell

information on this area’s history – the people, places and events that have shaped the local communities.

Established in 2004 through the dedicated efforts of the Red Bay Civitan Club, the Red Bay Museum welcomes visitors to explore relics of Red Bay’s storied past. Displays including a re-creation of the Red Bay Hotel lobby, the original soda fountain from an early drugstore and items from The Bay Theater.

Red Bay Museum 110 4th St. S.E. Red Bay, AL 35582 256-356-8758 Tuesday and Thursday, 1:30-4 p.m.

And by appointment $5 for adults, $2 for students, no charge for children under 6 years old

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Hospitals City hospitals promise quality medical care for community Red Bay Hospital Red Bay Hospital, located at 211 Hospital Road, Red Bay, opened in 1967 and services Northwest Alabama and Northeast Mississippi.

Red Bay Hospital was purchased by Helen Keller hospital in 1991 and is now a member of the Huntsville Hospital Health System.

The hospital was awarded status of Critical Access Hospital in 2005. It is licensed for 25 beds, 10 of which are designated as Swing Beds. The swing bed program is a unique service that allows the hospital to convert a hospital bed to a Russellville Hospital Russellville Hospital, located at 15155 Highway 43 in Russellville, is a 100bed acute care facility serving northwest Alabama.

Fully accredited by The Joint Commission, the hospital provides, among its services, a 24-hour emergency room, intensive care unit/cardiac care unit, respiratory therapy, inpatient and outpatient diagnostic and treatment services, rehabilitation services, cardiac catheterization, ambulatory surgery, laboratory and home health.

The hospital was acquired

by Curae Health in November 2014, allow26

long-term care bed, which makes it possible for a patient who is not quite ready to go home or to another facility to stay where they are, to receive full nursing care for up to 12 additional weeks.

Other services offered at Red Bay Hospital include blood bank, radiology, 24-hour emergency care, outpatient clinic, physical therapy, mammography, ultrasound, respiratory care and a full-service Well Care Center, which features modern exercise and rehabilitative equipment and is staffed with therapists and trainers.

To reach the hospital, call 256-356-9532. ing the facility to offer “enhanced physician recruiting, continuing education programs and other clinical and operational support through Huntsville Hospital Health System.”

Russellville Hospital serves as an educational clinic for local nursing, laboratory and radiology students. It is also active in the community, particularly as a yearly supporter of the local Relay for Life, for which it was named the Top Corporate Fundraiser for 2016 – the seventh consecutive year Russellville Hospital has received this award.

The hospital can be reached by calling 256-3321611.

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Hours: Mon. Tues. • Thurs. • Fri. 9 am - 5 pm Sat. 9 am - 3 pm • Closed Wed. & Sun.

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27

Honoring our heroes Franklin County has a rich tradition of honoring its active military and esteemed veterans. Besides annual recognitions, like the Russellville Veterans Day parade and the Every Light a Prayer for Peace ceremony, the county boasts several permanent locations where monuments serve as enduring reminders of the price so many have paid to make this country great.

Elected to Serve Dedicated to Excellence

Phil Campbell Memorial Park Downtown Phil Campbell Dedicated primarily to the memory of those lives lost in the April 27, 2011, tornado, the Phil Campbell Memorial Park also includes a stone erected in honor of veterans of World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, Desert Shield, Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. The park also serves as a community meeting place, with annual events like the Downtown Hoedown, the elementary school art show and April 27, 2011 memorial events being held here.

Bay Tree Park Downtown Red Bay Visitors to Bay Tree Park in Red Bay will not overlook a towering stone testament to

the heroism of World War I, World War II, Vietnam, Korea and Persian Gulf veterans. The park is a gathering spot for observances like the National Day of Prayer as well as the annual Founders Day festival. Proud American flags line the sidewalks during patriotic holidays.

Russellville Veterans Park 300 E. Limestone St. Russellville, AL 35653 Adjacent to the Franklin County archives, Russellville Veterans Park is situated on a grassy plot of land dedicated to local men and women who put their lives on hold when their country needed them the most. A brick pathway winds among the monuments and features the names of many local heroes.

One monument features the “Soldier’s Prayer;” others honor Franklin County’s involvement in the Civil War, the Spanish-American War, World War I, World War II and other wars and conflicts. The welcome monument, shaped like an open book, also serves as a time capsule.

Also in Russellville, at the county courthouse, is a monument that lists the names of many Franklin County natives who gave their lives for their country.

Rayburn Massey, Probate Judge Barry Moore, Don Hastings, and Chris Wallace

Franklin County Commission 28

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Addressing Challenges Today AND building For tomorrow Franklin County is a great place to live, work and play because of its best asset: the people. I am honored to be serving the people of Franklin County with integrity and conservative values.

Together, we can build for tomorrow by continuing to better the quality of life for the residents and businesses in our communities.

Proudly Proudlyy serving se erving you, you,,

Senator Larry Stutts

Funded by Stutts for Senate, P.O. Box 1014, Tuscumbia, AL 35674

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Where to go Franklin County is full to bursting with exciting places to go. Whether someone is looking for an all-day outing or a spot to kill a couple hours, the county is awash in both natural beauty and opportunities for recreational fun.

Cypress Cove

Sloss Lake

Rock Bridge Canyon 30

SLOSS LAKE Sloss Lake, a manmade lake created in the early 1900s, is located in Russellville adjacent to the John Blackwell Sports Complex and Highway 24.

The lake is host to a number of events throughout the year and is a great place to have a picnic or go fishing on a nice day.

Intersection of Highway 24 and Lawrence Street, Russellville DISMALS CANYON Dismals Canyon, located 12 miles south of Russellville off Highway 17, is a privately-owned and operated National Natural Landmark spread out over 85 acres.

Visitors to Dismals Canyon can hike along the trails, enjoy pristine waterfalls and explore the caves. Dismalite Night Tours allow visitors to see rare “glowworms” in their natural habitat. Open 365 days a year, the canyon also offers cabins with amenities and campgrounds for visitors planning an overnight stay.

901 Highway 8, Phil Campbell | 205-993-4559 CYPRESS COVE FARM From a small farm to a wildlife reserve, Cypress Cove Farm is a beautiful destination in Franklin County. Located just outside Red Bay, and included on the North Alabama Birding Trail, the area is diverse with a mix of fields, timberland, small ponds and artificial

wetlands, which create different habitats for wildlife.

Old farm buildings have been repurposed to serve as bird blinds and for educational purposes. Cypress Cove Farm is a fantastic spot for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

County Road 28, Red Bay ROCK BRIDGE CANYON EQUESTRIAN PARK Whether on horseback or your own two feet, the Rock Bridge Canyon Equestrian Park is one of the most beautiful places one can visit in Franklin County. Located in Hodges, the park has trails for both the adventurous rider looking for a challenge and the more laidback rider looking for a leisurely stroll, and Rock Bridge Canyon also encourages walkers and hikers. The park has over 27 miles of trails that include sparkling waterfalls, a natural rock bridge and canyon views. Additionally, the arena in the equestrian park is frequently host to rodeos and other special events.

1942 Alabama 172, Hodges | 205-935-3499 BEAR CREEK LAKES Spanning miles across Franklin County, the Bear Creek lakes are a go-to spot for camping or water activities. Boasting some of the cleanest recreational waters in Alabama, the four lakes that make up the Bear Creek system – Cedar Creek, Little Bear, Upper Bear and Bear Creek – are full of bass fish CHAMBER DIRECTORY

and surrounded by beautiful woodlands. Five campgrounds, open seven months of the year, allow for numerous activities on and off the water including boating, canoeing, swimming and picnicking.

Bear Creek Development Authority: 1111 County Road 88, Hodges | 256332-4392 MEMORIAL PARK On April 27, 2011, an EF-5 tornado tore through the town of Phil Campbell.

Memorial Park was built and dedicated to the lives lost on that day as well as to the military men and women of the area who have died protecting the rights and freedoms this country holds dear. In addition to fitting monuments, the park also offers a playground for children.

Downtown Phil Campbell THE SPLASH PAD The Splash Pad, located in Phil Campbell, is a unique, inexpensive way for children of all ages to beat the Alabama heat. Water splashes and sprays from all directions to keep kids cool.

Open to the public Tuesday through Sunday afternoons, the Splash Pad and adjoining playground can also be rented out for birthdays or other occasions.

Sherry Bryce Drive, Phil Campbell RED BAY WATER PARK The Red Bay Water Park is the only water park in Franklin County, making it a popular spot, especially during sweltering summer afternoons. Winding water slides and pools for people of all ages make it a destinaCHAMBER DIRECTORY

tion fit for the entire family. The water park is open to the public seven days a week and is also available for private parties.

602 2nd St. NW, Red Bay | 256-436-8852 CITY LAKE PARK City Lake Park in Russellville has a nice playground for children, a lake stocked with fish for fishing and a winding path for walkers, joggers and bikers.

Equipped with a pavilion, the park is available to rent out for parties and other occasions.

City Lake Drive, Russellville RUSSELLVILLE PUBLIC POOL The Russellville swimming pool is located on Rube Courington Drive near the campus of Russellville City Schools and is a popular place throughout the summer months. The pool opens around Memorial Day each year and offers open-tothe-public hours as well as special times set aside for swimming lessons by qualified lifeguards.

229 Rube Courington Drive, Russellville | 256-332-8790 FARMERS MARKETS Russellville and Red Bay each boast bustling Farmers Markets during the summer months to provide people with delicious, fresh produce.

Russellville: 202 Green Ave. SW, Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, 6 a.m. to noon, June through October Red Bay: 652 2nd St. NE, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., June through September

Farmers Markets

Public Pool

City Lake Park 31

What to do

There’s always something to do in Franklin County – trips to the library, sunny afternoons at the lake, visits to great local parks, community-wide school functions and other exciting outings keep life interesting. Annual attractions like Christmas parades and Relay for Life are also a big hit. And several times a year, special events are held in different parts of the county – festivals that celebrate the county’s past, present and future.

Hoedown

Spruce Pine Day

Watermelon Festival 32

PHIL CAMPBELL HOEDOWN Held in June each year, the Hoedown offers everything a good local festival should: a variety of entertainment, fun contests, a 5K run, carnival rides, a car show and arts and crafts vendors – not to mention, of course, plenty of food options.

Celebrated in downtown Phil Campbell, the two-day, family-friendly festival also features a World War II reenactment. Always wellattended, this festival is a great way to kick off the summer season in Franklin County and serves as an annual reunion for people named Phil Campbell (and Phyllis Campbell) from around the world.

SPRUCE PINE DAY The town might be small, but the festival is anything but. Spruce Pine Day is a much-loved tradition in this unincorporated community.

Festival-goers enjoy good food and fellowship while celebrating Spruce Pine history.

JAM ON SLOSS LAKE Held at Sloss Lake in Russellville, Jam on Sloss Lake features a morning car show followed by an afternoon of musical entertainment, which precedes the city’s awe-inspiring fireworks show to round out the evening. The festival attracts thousands for a fun evening

of celebrating this country’s heritage with neighbors, family and friends. For many, it’s a Fourth of July tradition.

VINA JULY FEST Vina’s July Fest is a way of providing a special local event and supporting the Vina Rescue Squad at the same time. For more than 25 years, the annual festival has brought people together for a day of fun and excitement in July. A full slate of entertainment – including a car show, food, crafts and live music – is accompanied by an always muchanticipated Draw Down – a $100 ticket gives people the chance to win a substantial cash prize or a truck. The day ends, of course, with a massive fireworks show.

FRANKLIN COUNTY WATERMELON FESTIVAL The highlight of the summer for many residents of, and visitors to, Franklin County, the Watermelon Festival combines some of the most-loved activities into a multi-day event: a car show, a pageant, a 5K, topnotch musical entertainment and a full slate of watermelon competitions, among other attractions. The festival, which began in 1981, is held each August in downtown Russellville. Thousands turn out to enjoy a cool slice of watermelon and celebrate life in Franklin County.

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What to do

BTCPA

Relay for Life

Roxy Theatre 34

RED BAY FOUNDERS FEST A one-day tribute to a town’s heritage has visitors headed to Red Bay in September for a day of free family fun. Situated under the shade trees of Bay Tree Park, the annual Red Bay Founder’s Fest features contests, sidewalks sales and live music. A beauty pageant precedes the festivities, which also include a car and truck show and traditional festival food. This must-not-miss festival honors the city’s past, replacing the Anniversary Picnic that celebrated Red Bay’s founding annually for many years.

THE SPIRIT OF HODGES FESTIVAL During The Spirit of Hodges Festival, this small town comes to life, bringing in people from all over to commemorate the community’s heritage. Started in 2007 and held every October, The Spirit of Hodges Festival celebrates the town’s affiliation with a World War II plane, for which the town was awarded naming rights for selling the most war bonds. The event provides a variety of attractions each year, like bouncy houses, a rock wall, yummy treats, fall fun and, of course, musical entertainment.

FRANKLIN COUNTY RELAY FOR LIFE Each May in Russellville, hard-working Relay for Life teams from across Franklin County come together for a night of fundraising, celebrating, remembering and

fighting back against cancer. Franklin County raises in excess of $100,000 each year for the American Cancer Society, with fundraising taking place throughout year as well as at the official Relay for Life event.

PARKS AND RECREATION Russellville, Red Bay and Phil Campbell offer vibrant Parks and Recreation programs for children in Franklin County. Dixie Youth sports are popular each year, and young people can also get involved in everything from T-Ball, volleyball and soccer to softball, football and basketball, as well as swimming lessons and special events like Russellville’s summer fishing rodeo and Movie in the Park.

BAY TREE COUNCIL FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS Fancy a night at the theatre? Red Bay’s Bay Tree Council for the Performing Arts puts on a three-show season annually with performances in late autumn, mid-winter and mid-spring at the Weatherford Centre in Red Bay. ROXY THEATRE The historic Roxy Theatre has been a beloved fixture of downtown Russellville since 1949. It first served as a movie theatre and today as a venue for concerts, recitals, and talent shows.

Monthly concerts feature the Kerry Gilbert Band, and the venue plays hosts to other bands and performers frequently throughout the year.

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A year in head lines July l 2015 Directional marker celebrates Phil Campbells If it seems the Phils have become a part of the town’s identity, well, they have. Saturdaythey added their own mark on the town. Phil Campbell from Birmingham and Phil Campbell from Tuscaloosa erected a directional sign in the town’s Memorial Park. The sign is fitted with mini directional signs that denote the direction and distance Phil and Phyllis Campbells have traveled to “their town.”

Nava pleads guilty to murder Angel Campos Nava, 39, originally indicted on a capital murder charge in February 2013, pled guilty to murder in court Monday in Russellville. Nava, who was accused of the murder of longtime girlfriend Lesley Hope Plott, faces life in prison, with possibility of parole. If paroled, Nava – who required interpretation through the course of the proceedings – would likely be deported to Mexico.

Two face attempted murder charges Two men have been arrested on attempted murder charges following a shooting July 21in Russellville. At about 7:30 p.m., a shot was fired on South Washington Street in Russellville. The victim was transported to Huntsville with a gunshot wound to neck/head area. Russellville PD arrested Javorose Monquis Yarbough and brother Everett Shields for attempted murder and Yarbough’s parents for hindering prosecution.

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August 2015 Sheriff arrests one for bestiality The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office arrested Russell Joseph Meyers, 54, on four counts of bestiality. Meyers, a Chicago native and former traveling circus member, admitted to intercourse with his dog.

Woman attempts midnight jail break-in Near midnight Aug. 11, Talisha McCann, 42, was discovered attempted to cut through a fence to enter the Franklin County Jail. FCSO reported she was carrying two bags of tobacco and a small amount of a controlled substance; she was charged with possession of burglar tools, criminal mischief third degree, trespass second degree, promoting prison contraband second degree and possession of a controlled substance.

September 2015 Community honors Rex Mayfield for years of dedication Russellville City Schools Superintendent Rex Mayfield announced his retirement in January 2015 after four years as RCS superintendent and nearly 35 years in the school system, in which he began as an agriculture teacher. The beloved educator and administrator was honored with a reception at the central office, attended by a standing-room-only crowd.

City announces improved ISO rating Russellville announced a jump in ISO

rating from a Class f l 4 to a Class l 2. The h rating indicates the city’s ability to respond to a fire emergency and represents the combined capabilities of the fire department, water department and communications department. According to Fire Chief Joe Mansell, the departments were able to follow a strict and specific set of guidelines to meet Class 2 specs. Out of 50,000 fire departments in the nation, 917 are a Class 2. Eighteen of those are in Alabama, out of a total of 1,535 departments in Alabama.

Hodges makes plans for Bear Creek Education Center Bear Creek Education Center and Overton Farms are getting a second chance thanks to an agreement among the Bear Creek Development Authority, Town of Hodges and the TVA in December 2014. In September, labor and monetary investment began to set the education center on a track to reopening. The vision is to make the education center a major tourist destination.

Death row convict appeals sentence Convicted murderer Christie Scott filed a Rule 32 petition to overrule her conviction because of “ineffective assistance of counsel.” Scott, 36, of Russellville, was convicted of capital murder in July 2009 after she was found guilty of starting a fire Aug. 16, 2009, at her family’s home, in which her 6-year-old son died.

Scott is only the second person in Franklin County in the modern justice system to have been sentenced to death.

Russellville native wins Mrs. America Madeline Grace Mitchell Gwin, 26, was crowned Mrs. America in September. She is thought to be the youngest CHAMBER DIRECTORY

winner in Mrs. America history. Gwin, a Russellville native, won the Mrs. Alabama American pageant in March 2015.

October 2015

Roxy Theatre receives Lasting Impression Award The Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association has honored the historic Roxy Theatre in Russellville with the 2015 Lasting Impression Award. The award, representing the highest achievement in North Alabama tourism, is among 12 PEAK Awards that were presented Sept. 16 during the AMLA Annual Meeting. The Franklin County Chamber of Commerce nominated the Roxy for the award.

County driver’s license office one of 31 to close The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency closed 31 part-time driver’s license offices, including Franklin County’s in an attempted response to reduced funding.

The office was only open one day a week and typically handled 700-800 transactions in a year. (It was later announced that the office would be reopened the first Wednesday of each month).

November 2015 City gets $250K for Hal Kirby Park Russellville Mayor David Grissom announced the city was awarded at $250,000 grant to rehabilitate Hal Kirby Jr. Park. Following citywide flooding in June 2015, the park was perhaps Russellville’s area of greatest damage – fences were torn down and ballfields were damaged to the point of being unusable. But the $250,000 CDBG was granted to provide new fencing, a multiuse building to accommodate the concession stand, restrooms and press box.

Red Bay reveals new visitor’s guide A new 12-page visitor’s guide for Red Bay was debuted in a special ceremony following a yearlong development process. The visitor’s guide initiative began, at least in part, with visitors to Tiffin Motorhomes in mind. The guide spotlights leisure time opportunities for visitors in and around Red Bay and includes CHAMBER DIRECTORY

a comprehensive list of the most soughafter services, like doctors, gas stations, grocery stores, restaurants and retail stores and was made possible by a grant from the Alabama Tourism Department.

RMS Coach Larry Gilmer earns Coach of the Year Dove Men+Care Deodorant and the College Football Hall of Fame recognized Russellville Middle School football Coach Larry Gilmer with a surprise pep rally to present him with the Dove Men+Care Deodorant Caring Coach of the Year Award. The recognition celebrates “the ways in which his care has been a positive force in his community for the last two decades.” A film crew was also in town to create a documentary about Gilmer.

December 2015 Vina recognizes clerk for 25 years of service Sue Raper, town clerk of Vina, was honored for 25 years of working hard for the people of Vina. In 1990, a councilmember asked her to apply for the position, and she became the first fulltime clerk ever hired. Today she stays busy, taking care of 13 bank accounts, handling taxes and payroll and sitting on the EMS board and helping with the parade committee, as well as doing anything else the mayor or council need and keeping council meeting minutes.

Phil Campbell’s Rita Barton retires from Parks, Rec After nearly four decades of serving on the Phil Campbell Parks and Recreation Committee, chairperson Rita Barton decided to retire from her position.

Barton spent 37 years on the committee and 14 years as the chairperson. She initiated the city-wide Phil Campbell Hoedown, Parks and Rec’s major yearly event.

January 2016 County, loggers debate potential ordinance It’s not always the case that a county commission work session warrants notice by the community, but after one agenda item from December 2015’s work session sparked controversy among a segment of the community, January’s work session drew a crowd.

The proposed ordinance drawing so much attention was a logging ordinance, which the county was considering in order to create a notification system to provide smooth communication between loggers and the county engineering department. Of particular concern was whether or not the county ever intended to try to impose a bond – the county claimed that was never under consideration; loggers voiced their concerns.

Solid Waste manager Phillip Wilson arrested, fired According to a report from the county district attorney’s office, Franklin County Solid Waste manager Phillip Wilson was arrested on one count of trafficking a controlled substance and one count of conspiracy to traffic a controlled substance. The Franklin County Drug Task Force, comprising one FCSO officer and one RPD officer, conducted the investigation. Bond was set for Wilson at $25,000. Wilson was put on leave by the county commission and terminated shortly thereafter.

Downtown redevelopment With a new year came a renewed focus on the redevelopment of downtown Russellville. The city contract with NACOLG, and Mayor David Grissom said NACOLG’s Nathan Willingham recommended a downtown redevelopment committee, which was quickly established: Heather Willis, Cassie Medley, Chase Sparks, Tim Purdue, Charles Canida, Jamie Harris and Matt Cooper. The city began the long process 37

of breathing new life into downtown Russellville. “It’s a pretty big undertaking,” Grissom said. “The key to it is going to be everybody working together with a common goal.”

Judge orders injunction for PBAS A series of hearings lasting one year nearly to the day resulted in an injunction against Pleasant Bay Ambulance Service. Judge Terry Dempsey granted the injunction requested jointly by the City of Russellville, City of Red Bay and Franklin County, which orders Pleasant Bay Ambulance not to operate at all within the city limits of Russellville and Red Bay, as well as not to answer 9-1-1 calls in the county. Pleasant Bay was permitted to answer private pay calls in the county.

February 2016

Ozbirn named president of Tennessee Valley Historical Society To her knowledge, she’s the first woman president and the first Franklin County president for the Tennessee Valley Historical Society: Chris Ozbirn, director of the Franklin County Archives. Ozbirn has been on the board for the past five or six years. When asked to take the role, Ozbirn said, “My plate is full.” With the archives as her priority, she said she wasn’t sure she had time for the president role. “I worked too long and hard to get the archives to put it to the side.”

It took some serious soul-searching, but Ozbirn finally accepted the role. “I thought, I can give it a whirl.”

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Popular country singer Sonny James dies at 87 North Alabama native and popular country singer Sonny James died at the age of 87. Born James Hugh Loden in Hackleburg in neighboring Marion County May 1, 1928, James was best known for his 1956 hit “Young Love” but had 72 charted country and pop music releases from 1953-1983 and 26 No. 1 hits. But even after receiving so much recognition and so many accolades in the music industry, James never forgot his North Alabama roots. After the deadly tornado outbreak on April 27, 2011, devastated his hometown and nearby Phil Campbell and East Franklin, James showed his support by participating in a benefit concert for the victims of the tornado in June 2011 at the Russellville High School Stadium.

March 2016 RCS to implement tuition policy In a unanimous vote at the Russellville City Schools Board of Education meeting, a policy was approved to allow the implementation of enrollment criteria that will have the likely impact of decreasing the number of out-of-district students in Russellville City Schools. The new policy will help to address overcrowding in the school system as well as budgetary concerns. Under the new admission guidelines, students enrolling in RCS from outside the district will be charged tuition of $600 a year to be admitted. In addition, disciplinary problems, academic performance and attendance record will be contributing factors in a student’s eligibility. Busing will also not be provided to out-of-district students. “What we’re trying to do is make sure we uphold the reputation of excellence we’ve always had,” Superintendent Heath Grimes said.

Wake up for waffles Construction is in progress at the Franklin Shopping Center on Highway 43 in Russellville. Right now the work site is little more than a hole in the ground, but within three months it will be the home of 24-hour syrupy, buttery waffles, along with other diner favorites. Presenting: Waffle House. “We’re really excited to have them here,” said Mayor David Grissom, who confirmed the Waffle

House last week. He said the restaurant is set to open at the beginning of June.

Tim Bishop passes away It’s been two years since Dr. Tim Bishop announced his retirement as “Voice of the Russellville Golden Tigers,” and last week, Russellville lost one of its biggest fans. Bishop passed away March 2 at Huntsville Hospital following extended illness. He was 61 years old. It’s hard to say whether Bishop was better known in this area for his radio voice or his work as a chiropractor. For more than 30 years, he broadcast for Golden Tiger sports – more than 450 football and basketball games. Don Cox, Golden Tiger coach from 1980-1995, once said Bishop did as much as anyone to build the Golden Tiger tradition. “No matter what the score or how the game was going, he was always positive and supportive of the team,” Cox said. “He was always so genuine and enthusiastic. He was a true fan calling the game.”

OSHA issues Pilgrim’s Pride citation The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration issued citations to Pilgrim’s, 2045 Highway 244 in Russellville, on March 7 following investigation into a machine operator injury. The 53-year-old machine operator reportedly suffered a severe injury as he attempted to reassemble a chicken-part separating machine.

As he worked on the machine, it started unexpectedly and amputated the middle finger on his left hand up to the first joint.

Governor visits Russellville Healthcare and broadband – and the challenges faced by rural areas attempting to provide such services – were the topics of the day for Gov. Robert Bentley, who spent the morning in Russellville. Bentley met with the Franklin County Broadband Taskforce at the Franklin County Courthouse and also spent several hours at Russellville Hospital, visiting with administrators and local medical professionals.

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April 2016

‘One of the worst murders ever’ In a preliminary hearing, in the case of Hailey Renfroe, 20, of Phil Campbell, who was charged with aggravated child abuse in late March after the death of her 22-month-old daughter, the court found sufficient evidence to have her case bound over to the grand jury.

Judge Paula McDowell found probable cause, and the case will come before an upcoming grand jury. Twenty-twomonth-old Serenity was found dead with obvious signs of abuse, and Renfroe’s boyfriend, Shannon Dale Gargis, 28, Spruce Pine, was charged with capital murder. His case was also bound over to the grand jury.

Ronnie McDowell performs for 25th year Ronnie McDowell has missed only one year since he began performing annual in Russellville in 1990. For this year’s concert to benefit the Roxy Theatre, a number of special presentations marked the auspicious occasion. Arguably the most special moment of the evening was the revealing of a marble tile in McDowell’s honor that was installed in the sidewalk in front of the theatre. The tile was the result of a brainstorm among Franklin County Arts and Humanities Council members Chase Sparks and Wanda Myrick along with Mayor David Grissom, as well as others.

May 2016 Morrow signs impeachment petition By this time the news of Gov. Robert Bentley’s reported indiscretions is known far and wide, and the rumblings of impeachment have continued to grow. Now, that impeachment is in motion, with the required 21 signatures collected to bring the articles CHAMBER DIRECTORY

of impeachment before the Judiciary Committee. The 21st signature? Rep. Johnny Mack Morrow. Morrow said he became committed to seeing action against Bentley as details continued to unfold about Bentley’s relationship with adviser Rebekah Caldwell Mason, who many have accused of acting as the de facto governor.

Rocket team finishes Top 10 in nation It was another moment of success for the RCS Engineering rocket students when this year’s TARC winners were announced. The team ranked in the Top 10 in the nation, coming in at No. 9, and also received an award for Best Outreach Program, recognizing the countless hours the teams have spent sharing their experience and helping to build rocket programs at other schools.

Golden Tigers take Red Map The Golden Tigers boys golf team brought home the red map after a stellar performance at the state golf championships May 9-10. The runner-up finish follows last year’s state win. The boys came in second place with the score of 604, falling a few strokes behind St. Paul, who had 583. Eli Hodges stood out as an individual with the lowest score out of the 5A players. Hodges had a score of 141, with a 71 on the first day’s 18 hole and 70 as his second day score, being under both days.

‘It’s been unbelievable’ It is often said in baseball that good pitching beats good hitting, and Russellville had it in Montgomery for the team’s state title defense. After losing game one of the series against Faith Academy 9-1, the Golden Tigers sent their pair of Austins (Bohannon and Kitterman) to the mound in games two and three, and the seniors made sure the blue map trophy was heading north on Interstate 65 after the series instead of south.

June 2016 County Commissioner Wyman Pounders passes away Franklin County Commissioner Wyman Pounders, who recently had been dealing with several health issues, passed away in the early hours of Monday morning. Pounders had been a Franklin County commissioner for the past four years and was in the midst of his re-election campaign. He was passionate about serving the people of this county. A retired police officer and retired school resource officer, Pounders was active in the Disabled American Veterans, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Courthouse Security Board and the County Cattleman’s Association. He was also a member of the First Baptist Church and enjoyed running his cattle and poultry farm.

Nichols ends 40-year fire-fighting career As a child, Russellville Fire Department’s Ray Nichols never dreamed of being a firefighter. But after he was hired on to the department in 1976, he found he never wanted to leave. “After I got into it I realized I like this, and I wanted to keep doing it,” he said. Even after he retired in 2002, Nichols found himself coming back as a part-timer, suiting up when fellow firefighters were on vacation or out sick. But after 40 years of active service, “I think it’s time for me to step down and let the younger guys take my place.”

Northside Grocery closes after decades in operation Northside Grocery announced it would be closing July 3 after decades in operation in Russellville. No one’s quite sure when it first opened. When Smith and Matt Cooper were considering closing the store in 2014, then-employee Judy Miller decided to take the leap and buy the business. “They just made me such a great offer,” Miller said. “I wanted to try it because I wanted Northside to stay open.

Now I’m the one who’s going to be closing it. That’s killing me.”

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